Not sure why the obit says she was in CC #89 in 1994, when she was in CC #80 in 1986, but I had the honor and privilege of working with & for her over the years in District 8, where I was first assigned after graduating from ISPA in 1990 (CC #87).  Barb “Killer,” you were always fun to work with, and still remember when you gave your squad black t-shirts with a fun logo on it when you were a Sergeant.  We were both originally from Dist. 9, and we loosely stayed in touch over the decades, and were also both Academy staff at some point.  I was very sad to hear of your untimely passing.  RiP.  Peace be with you and your family.  -S/A Eric O. #4358 (ret.)

Bonnie & Family…We are so sorry to hear this! Barb was a wonderful & caring soul. She will continue to live through many of us. May happy memories of a life well-lived soon replace the tears in your hearts…


I was fortunate to see Barb a couple of years ago at an ISP Orientation.  It was like time never passed.  She was still the friendly, warm person that I had remembered decades ago.  Barb impacted many lives in a positive way.  I feel blessed to have known her and wish the family peace and comfort as they cherish their memories.

Bonnie and Family,
So sorry to hear of the unexpected passing of Barb, you have our condolences.  I remember Barb as little girl coming in to the Methodist Church with Beverly  and Mom Bonnie to Sunday School-such cute kids!
Will keep you in our prayers and God give you comfort in the days ahead.
Susan (Placke) and Byron Hamman

Barb and Bonnie celebrating the Kink wedding June 2021

Barb was One of the biggest supporters of the Joe and DeAnna Kink family!  

I was saddened to see the passing of Barb,.  She and Bonnie always were welcoming to me when my husband and I were on the motorcycle,  They all loved those rides, and I was always the not so comfortable one riding on occasion with him because he loved his motorcycle rides with his friends.  Condolences to Bonnie and all of Barbs’ family.   May she Rest In Peace and all those fun memories get you through this time of grief.

So saddened by the passing of Barb. She was a kind, funny, caring person and I am so happy I knew her. My late husband and I met Barb and Bonnie at our home away from home, Engrained. We always enjoyed their company.  My deepest sympathy to family. Hugs, Bonnie.

So sorry for your loss.  Barb was a great gal, friend, classmate and Trooper.  No matter how many years had past since our ‘86 graduation when our paths crossed it was like no time had passed.  She always had her best smile on.
Sleep well Barb.  You will forever be my favorite boxing partner.

Tpr. Joe DeLaRosa  CC80, D-07 (retired)

Barb was always there with a word of support whether you were a Cadet or seasoned officer. Rest in strength ole fierce one. 

I had the good fortune to work with Barb many years ago at the Academy.  As a former colleague and as a friend, I can say she was totally  dedicated to serving the people of Illinois; and from the moment she first put on her uniform to the day she retired, Barb truly exemplified:
                                          Integrity,
                                          Service, and 
                                          Pride.
She will be missed!

Barb and Star Touring and Riding friends.   She was an awesome Road Captain and friend.

Barb was a great motorcycle friend and member of the Springfield Star Touring and Riding Chapter. 

Barb loved her "Uncle Johnny", and was present with our family for his Welcome Home Celebration after his Honor Flight in 2017.  She handed him a folded American flag to commemorate the event.  

What a wonderful person.  Intelligent, kind, brave, unselfish.  A Trooper's Trooper.  We retired on the same hour at the same age.  Our paths crossed in ISP many times, and was always my pleasure.   Well done, Barb.    

I'm so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you and your family. My sincere condolences, Angie Spangler 

I was a Trooper in D-08 with Barb back in the late 80’s.  She was always a joy to be around.  Our paths crossed over the years as we went different directions, but she would always have time to greet me with a smile and spend a little time “catching up”.  God bless her, she will be missed by many.

Retired S/A Joe Spidle (Florida)

Hello:

Much sorrow to hear of the Lord taking Barb’s hand so early in Life.  I was a rookie Trooper in 1996 and met her.    A very good person, and Trooper.    God Bless you, Barb…. God Bless you, Bonnie,   though we’ve never met.      I am sorry for your loss.

Barbara: it was my very great pleasure to be your field training officer when you came to District 8. I knew immediately that you were going to be a great officer. You proved it with outstanding service to the state police. The friendship that you showed with my wife and I is greatly appreciated. The good Lord has blessed me with knowing you.  Tim and Barb Siron

Our deepest condolences to Bonnie, Barb’s mother, her sisters, and brother. Our prayers for their healing and understanding.
My family has lost a caring, supportive, always helpful friend…who was always there for us. The Illinois State Police has lost an extremely dedicated officer who gave her all every day…even after retirement. I know your family is extremely proud of you. There are no words for our grief. 
Thank you Barb for your service and friendship.  And, of course, we can’t forget …Go Notre Dame 🏈…..
Keep an ever watchful eye on our officers Barb.
Our Lord and St. Michael has welcomed you.

Barb was my cousin on my father's side.  I have a lot of memories of Barb, but the most recent involves her sense of humor.  When my husband and I were recently traveling from Nevada to Houston, TX, I asked her what she recommended we do to abide by laws for carrying our handgun for protection while traveling.  She gave us her advice then ended with a final suggestion of getting a 'Trump bumper sticker' for our vehicle.  Her humor was one of the things I truly loved about her. She will be deeply missed. RIP, cousin. I love you.
Judy and Pedro

Barb was a beloved friend to so many. She was always there with a smile and a word of encouragement when you needed a helping hand. She leaves a void inside many of us and her memory of giving will be cherished by us all. 

Condolences to dear Bonnie and Barb’s beloved family. 


My sincerest condolences, your family will remain  on my heart and in my prayers. A couple of years ago I returned to Bluffs for a family member‘s funeral.  I hadn’t been in town for almost 15 years. The first person I saw as I was walking across the street was Barb. You would’ve thought we were long lost friends as we stood and chatted and she made me feel so comfortable  as I came back to “my hometown”. God‘s blessings to you, her family and all that loved her. 

Jeff Mueller.🙏🏾❤️🙏🏾. 

OBITUARY

Barbara L. Freesen

September 7, 1955 – February 7, 2022

Bisch Funeral Home

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